Michael Gershon, a 41-year-old New York City real estate investor, has been an athlete all his life. Before moving to New York City, he lived in Colorado where he was a ski instructor and enjoyed mountain biking and karate. However, after a lifetime of activity, pain in his hip caused him to lose 70% of his range of motion, and kept him from the activities he loved. An x-ray showed he had virtually no cartilage left in his left hip joint. Eventually, the pain got so bad that he couldn’t tie his shoe on his left foot.
“I walk about a mile to work every morning in Manhattan and I would fear that my left shoe would become untied,” said Gershon. “I felt old. At 40 years old I was like, how is it possible I need a hip replacement?”
Like many people, Gershon delayed getting a hip replacement over concerns about experiencing more pain, and the possibility of a lengthy recovery time. Yet he wanted to get back to many of the physical activities that he used to enjoy so much.
“I felt that part of my life was taken away from me and, as dramatic as that may sound, when you can’t do the things that you love to do anymore, it’s traumatic,” said Gershon. “I decided I need to do something about it, it’s time to talk to a doctor about hip replacement.”
After consulting with his orthopedic surgeon about the benefits and risks of surgery, Gershon decided to get a Mako Total Hip Replacement, a hip replacement that is performed using a surgeon-controlled robotic-arm.
After surgery Gershon found the recovery to be much easier than he expected. Soon after surgery, he was able to get up and start physical therapy.
“All of the delays that I put into making the decision, I wish I could’ve gone back and done it sooner. I would tell anybody, if you’re in pain, there is no reason to be in pain. Talk to a surgeon, and see if hip replacement surgery is right for you. I am seven weeks out of my surgery, and I’m very happy to say it looks like I have a bright future ahead,” said Gershon.
Individual results vary. Not all patients will have the same post-operative recovery and activity level. See your orthopaedic surgeon to discuss your potential benefits and risks.
